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Israel, Hamas Press for Advantage

Both Sides Step Up Attacks Amid Talk That Cease-Fire Looms; Some See a Gain in Stature for Gaza Strip's Leaders

A diplomatic push to end Israel's nearly weeklong offensive in the Gaza Strip gained momentum Tuesday. Matt Bradley has details on The News Hub. Photo: AP.

By

Charles Levinson

Updated Nov. 20, 2012 8:47 p.m. ET

TEL AVIV—Israel and Hamas mounted furious new rounds of missile and rocket attacks on Tuesday, on a day when reports swirled that the two sides were close to a deal that could end a week of deadly confrontation.

Hamas officials said throughout Tuesday that a cease-fire deal was imminent. The day ended without an agreement, however, as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived for three days of talks in the region that officials said were aimed at cementing a long-term cease-fire.